Vermont's Auditor of Accounts tracks how the state spends taxpayer money, and makes sure that government programs are performing the way they should. Current Auditor Tom Salmon is not seeking re-election this year, creating an open race for the position.

Candidates Vince Illuzzi (R) and Doug Hoffer (D/P) debate what they'd bring to the office of state auditor and explain why they'd be best to fill this role. 

Video Direct Links - State Auditor's debate

Listen to the entire debate, or click the topics below to jump to that section.

Jane Lindholm's questions to the candidates:

• Priorities and vision for the job, role of performance: Vince Illuzzi | Doug Hoffer
• Curbing municipal embezzlement: Doug Hoffer | Vince Illuzzi
• Role in crafting the state budget and suggesting budget cuts: Vince Illuzzi | Doug Hoffer

The candidates' questions to each other:

• Hoffer to Illuzzi: Why won't you give up your position as state's attorney if you're elected Auditor?
• Illuzzi to Hoffer: Wasn't it unfair to criticize Auditor Tom Salmon's spending on performance audits?
• Illuzzi to Hoffer: contract bidding process, sole source contracts
• Hoffer to Illuzzi: bill to re-instate a capital gains exclusion

Listeners' questions to the candidates:

• Efficiency and availability of state services in rural areas
• Disclose candidates' personal investments and business interests
• Role of auditor in rectifying the overtime/payroll fraud by former State Police Sgt. Deeghan
• The Comprehensive Annual Financial Report as assets to be leveraged and used
• Influence of SuperPAC money in this race

Closing questions:

• Doug Hoffer: Address the criticism that you're too much of a policy wonk, and lack management experience.
• Vince Illuzzi: Address the criticism that your experience puts you too close to those you'll be auditing.